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ACU students run Sydney train network to raise money for mental health

ACU students Emma Gidney and Nick Thornton are running the entire Sydney rail network for mental health.

While most commuters use the Sydney train network to get to their destination, the two postgraduate students are using it as the ultimate test of human endurance.

Emma and Nick will attempt a feat never documented: running the entire Sydney train and metro network, line by line, in just 10 days.

The Mind On Track initiative started on 26 February and will see the duo cover about 600 kilometres by March 7. The mission is as much about mental health as it is about physical stamina.

“As students, we know how tough juggling multiple aspects of life can be – with the stress, pressure, and isolation often taking a toll on your own mental wellbeing,” Emma said.

“This student-led initiative is about more than running. It’s about showing that when we push our limits together, we can raise awareness, break down stigma, and encourage conversations.

She said this helped spark the idea to base this running initiative around the train line.

"The train line represents movement, connection, and the daily journeys people take, physically and mentally," she said.

"It is the one place all of Sydney is connected, where people cross paths without even knowing and while we may cross paths on a daily basis, we never truly know how someone's day is going and how that is impacting them.

“With our run along the Sydney Train line, we hope to show how just one conversation may help spark many more among others throughout our daily commute.”

The pair is aiming to raise $2500 each for mental health organisations headspace and Lifeline Australia.

As a future dietitian, she is using this platform to highlight that mental wellbeing is a full-body endeavour.

Throughout the 10-day challenge, the duo will share evidence-based tips on how nutrition, lifestyle, and community connection play a role in staying mentally healthy.

"Fuelling your body properly isn't just about performance; it's about respect," Emma told The St George & Sutherland Shire Leader.

"It's about giving your body what it deserves so you can show up fully in all areas of life.
"We'll be sharing a live tracker each day. The more people who know about this, the more conversations we can spark."

Follow their training journey via www.instagram.com/mind.on.track